updated 01:30 pm EST, Thu January 20, 2011

MSI tablet concept with rotating projector shown

A new, unique tablet concept from MSI has shown up that could expand its view beyond the main display. It still has a 10-inch main screen but adds a projector built into a rotating drum. The assembly described to NotebookItalia rotates to allow users to project what they see behind the tablet, or in front of the screen.

Windows 7 is preloaded on the Intel-powered device, but MSI said it was open to releasing an Android-powered, ARM-based variant.

MSI is said to be gauging interest with the prototype device thus far. A target market remains unspecified, but could include home or on-the-go entertainment use by throwing up movies onto a wall or for presentations by traveling business users. MSI's own engineers suggested it could be used to create a virtual keyboard in front of the screen.

If or when the unnamed tablet arrives, and what it will cost, remains to be seen.